Electrochemical study on the corrosion behaviour of Q235 steel in cleaning agents

Purpose There are significant differences in the corrosion protection performance of commonly used cleaning agents for high-speed railways. In order to study the dual requirements of cleaning efficiency and corrosion inhibition, explore the differences in corrosion protection performance of cleaning agents, effectively protect metal substrates, and ensure the safe, economical, and environmentally friendly operation of high-speed railways, this study is hereby carried out. Design/methodology/approach This study investigated the corrosion behaviour of Q235 steel exposed to acidic, neutral, and alkaline cleaning agents through metallographic analysis, electrochemical testing, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Findings Electrochemical behaviour was assessed at concentrations of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel tests. The results indicate that the protective efficacy of acidic, neutral, and alkaline cleaning agents follows the order: alkaline > neutral > acidic. Originality/value Microstructural analysis and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) surface element quantification reveal that acidic cleaning agents cause the most severe corrosion and offer the poorest protection for Q235 steel, whereas neutral and alkaline agents provide protective effects by retarding corrosion. Conducting in-depth research on the differences in corrosion protection performance of cleaning agents can effectively safeguard metal substrates, eliminate corrosion risks, and ensure the safe operation of high-speed railways.